Denver residents soundly rejected two ballot measures this week that would have banned processing plants within city limits and prohibited businesses from making or selling fur-based products. Voting results showed nearly 65% opposed the processing plant ban and almost 58% rejected the animal fur ban.
The “Prohibition of Slaughterhouses” measure tried to outlaw “the construction, maintenance or use of” any meat processing facilities in Denver beginning January 1, 2026. According to a Colorado State University study, the ban threatened more than 2,700 jobs, including independent ranchers, truckers, distributors, retailers, butchers, restaurant owners and employees. It also put at least $215 million in economic benefits in jeopardy. KLA joined several other livestock and cattle organizations in supporting the “Vote No” campaign on this initiative.
The fur ban ordinance would have outlawed the manufacture, distribution, display, sale or trade of certain animal products in Denver, with limited exceptions. Had the ordinance passed, it could have affected the sale of cowboy and other hats made of beaver, rabbit or hare hides.